Who we are and what we do…
Around 7,000 adults study each year with Birmingham Adult Education Service.
Since August 2019 our funding has come through the West Midlands Combined Authority and learners on some courses also pay fees towards the full cost of their course.
BAES is a first steps provider, mainly delivering qualifications up to level 2 (GCSE equivalent). Many learners attend to gain skills and qualifications for work. There is also a significant range of non-qualification courses which support health and well-being. Courses run during the day, evening and on Saturday.
Courses in essential skills – English maths and IT – are free, as are other qualifications for those on income-related benefits, or those who earn less than £32,000 per annum. English language courses (ESOL) run across Birmingham and are also free. Some learners are mandated to attend by Job Centre Plus (JCP). The range of vocational subjects includes IT, and Business, Creative Crafts, Health and Social Care. We also have a programme for learners with special/additional educational needs.
BAES embeds enrichment activities and wider skills into their courses to improve the quality of education that learners receive. BAES offer intensive packages of learning for adults to develop their readiness for employment with English, maths and IT skills, together with specialist IT or Health and Social Care programmes which include work-related placements and activities.
We aim to engage with all communities. Our programme of non-qualification courses provide activities that encourage social inclusion and for people to become engaged and active in their local community thereby improving the health and well-being of the city. The approach to studying a foreign language through Brasshouse Languages at the Library of Birmingham includes activities to improve understanding of cultural difference and community cohesion. This provision, with a national reputation, offers courses in many popular languages.
In addition to direct delivery provision, BAES works with partners to engage those who are unlikely to join mainstream courses. For example, we run Family Learning courses in partnership with local schools and children’s centres, engaging parents and children in learning together.
Our Curriculum Intent
Birmingham Adult Education Service offers personalised learning programmes for all residents and with a particular focus on the most disadvantaged and those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.
Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance
We have fully qualified staff who can provide careers guidance and labour market information to help people make informed decisions about their career path.
Learner Support
There is financial support available for childcare whilst learners study for qualifications. We can also support those on low incomes with things like exam fees and course materials.
We provide equipment and adjustments where it is needed for those who require this help. We assess learners for dyslexia if a need is identified.
Black Lives Matter
Birmingham Adult Education Service (BAES) commits to challenging the ongoing injustice faced by the black community.
We continue to show our solidarity by working with colleagues and learners to feel safe, represented and respected. As an organisation, we will make every effort to ensure equity, diversity and inclusion is transparent in all aspects of our work.
BAES supports Black Lives Matter and believe that equity and justice should be paramount in the lives of the individuals we work with.